Watauga Point Recreational Park

For dining options near Watauga Point Recreation Area, visitors can explore several local restaurants. H & H Whiteway Grill is a family-friendly American restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere and quick service. Another popular spot is The Appalachian Station at 19E, which offers a casual dining experience with live music and forest views. For barbecue lovers, Ridgewood Barbecue provides a classic, old-fashioned BBQ experience with a cozy setting. Additionally, Highlander BBQ offers a similar barbecue experience with great desserts and a casual atmosphere.

These restaurants offer a mix of comfort food, local flavors, and scenic views, making them perfect for a meal after a day at the recreation area.

For accommodations near Watauga Point Recreation Area, Watauga Lakeshore Resort and Marina is a top choice. Located in Hampton, Tennessee, it offers a resort experience with marina facilities, making it ideal for those interested in boating and water activities. The resort provides a range of amenities and services, including boat rentals and dining options. Another nearby option is Lakeshore Cottages & Motel, which offers cozy accommodations with a more laid-back atmosphere. Both options provide easy access to the scenic beauty of Watauga Lake and the surrounding Cherokee National Forest.

Watauga Point Recreation Area offers several amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The area includes picnic tables, grills, and a pavilion with electricity, making it suitable for family gatherings or group events. Accessible flush toilets are available during the season, though they are closed and winterized during colder months. The pavilion and shady areas are reservable, providing flexibility for planning events. Additionally, the nearby forest offers a gravel trail for hiking and exploring.

The recreation area is well-suited for picnicking and sunbathing, with large shade trees scattered throughout the grassy areas.

Watauga Point Recreation Area offers a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the nearby trails, which provide beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and Watauga Lake. Fishing is a popular activity, with species like trout, bass, and walleye available in the lake. Boating is also a favorite pastime, with boat ramps available in the vicinity for water sports or relaxing cruises. Wildlife watching is another attraction, as the area is home to diverse wildlife such as deer and various bird species.

The scenic beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and the lake makes it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and those seeking outdoor adventures.

Watauga Point Recreation Area offers some accessibility features. The pavilion and picnic areas are generally accessible, though specific accommodations for disabilities may be limited. Visitors with mobility issues should check ahead of time to ensure that the facilities meet their needs. Additionally, nearby restaurants like H & H Whiteway Grill and Ridgewood Barbecue offer wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms, providing dining options that are more inclusive.

Parking at Watauga Point Recreation Area is convenient, with a paved parking area available for visitors. The parking is generally free and accessible, though the capacity may vary depending on the season and visitor numbers. The parking area is close to the picnic facilities and trails, making it easy to access the various activities and amenities offered by the recreation area.

Visitors should note that while parking is generally available, it's advisable to check current conditions before visiting, especially during peak seasons or special events.

Watauga Lake is the highest reservoir in Tennessee, standing at over 1,900 feet in elevation. It is managed for flood management, power generation, aquatic ecology, and recreation, making it a unique and important environmental feature. The lake's scenic beauty and diverse wildlife make it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Additionally, the surrounding Appalachian Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities and scenic drives.

The area's rich natural history and its role in the Cherokee National Forest contribute to its appeal as a destination for those interested in exploring the great outdoors.

Near Watauga Point Recreation Area, several attractions enhance the visitor experience. The Big Laurel Branch Wilderness Area, located on the opposite shore of Watauga Lake, offers additional hiking and exploration opportunities. The Cardens Bluff Campground and Rat Branch Boat Ramp are nearby facilities that provide camping and boating access, respectively. The Pond Mountain Shooting Range is another nearby attraction for those interested in target shooting.

The Watauga Dam, completed in 1948, is also a notable attraction, offering insights into the history and engineering of the lake.